High expectations for Condoleezza Rice´s visit to Moscow

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-15-2007 08:32

The United States started to deploy its antiballistic missile system in 2002. It now wants to extend the system to Europe in the face of strong opposition from Russia.

The United States plans to deploy 10 missile interceptors in Poland and radar in the Czech Republic from 2012. It claims this is to address a possible threat from so-called rogue states like Iran.

Russia argues such a threat is exaggerated, and the sites are so close to its borders the systems will be used to track Russian military activities.

This week, the United States and Poland will open formal negotiations, despite Moscow's objections.

Last month, Putin said the missile shield does not pose any immediate military threat for Russia, but warned that Russia will have to develop new anti-missile technology to counter it.

Amid growing tensions, Condoleezza Rice heads to Russia to calm politicians at the Kremlin. Analysts say America's top diplomat has her work cut out for her.

Ji Zhiye, vice president China Inst. of Contemporary Int'l Rel., said,

"Ostensibly, Rice's trip to Moscow is to explain the US intentions on the defense system issue, and communicate with Russia. Actually, the Secretary of State is being sent to persuade Russia to accept the fact that the deployment will move forward whatever the response."

Missile defense is only one of the signs of deteriorating relations between Washington and Moscow.

While the United States has accused Russia of rolling back democracy, Moscow charges Washington with acting unilaterally and meddling in its domestic affairs.

They also have different approaches to Iran's nuclear program, which the West alleges may be used to develop atomic weapons, but Tehran says it is solely to generate power.

Ji Zhiye said, "The United States wants to solidify its leading status in the world, while Russia, as a revived superpower, pursues multipolar development. The fundamental contradiction between their strategies, and people's attitudes on the two sides create many differences."

Before she left for Moscow, Rice said US-Russian relations were in what she called a "difficult period."

Analysts say the defense system issue has brought the relationship to a new low, but won't lead to direct confrontation.

Editor:Du Xiaodan